Nikola Malesevic
Nikola Malesevic
Years Played in Troyka: 2
Highschool: Silverthorn CI
University:University of Toronto
Position: Forward
Height: 6’7
Weight: 245 lbs
1. What are you doing now?
I am currently working full-time in the IT sector.
2. What are your top athletic achievements?
My biggest achievement was having the opportunity to play at the University/college level after finishing high school. While playing for the University of Toronto Varsity Blues Men’s Basketball team, I had the opportunity to travel and play all over Canada. One of my most notable moments was playing a friendly pre-season game versus Duke Mens Basketball matching up with Zion Williamson
Some other Notable achievements:
– 2x Divison 2 Champions (OBA)
– 1x CYBL Champion (2017)
– playing in the Adidas Gauntlet Series for Jerry Stackhouse’s AAU team
– playing in the Powerade Circuit
3. What are your top academic/professional achievements?
My top academic achievement was graduating from the University of Toronto with an Honours Bachelor of Arts (2017-2022). I also have a certificate in Digital Communications from Sheridan College. In high school, I was an Ontario Scholar and completed the core French program.
4. What are your favourite basketball memories/experiences?
One of my favourite basketball memories was when we had a pre-season game versus Duke University in 2018. This was the one and only year Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett and Cam Reddish played for Duke. I remember all the hype leading up to the game including media, photos, videos, playing in front of a sold-out crowd and also the game was broadcast live on TSN and ESPN. During the game, I was matched up with the number 1 draft pick of the 2019 draft (Zion Williamson) and being able to witness him play along with the Duke Men’s Basketball team is something I will never forget.
Throughout my career, I’ve also had the opportunity to play against many current NBA and pro basketball players. During my time at UOFT during the offseason we would occasionally have a few professional basketball players come and practice with us, often being Kelly Olynyk from the Toronto Raptors. During my Rep/AAU days, I was teammates with Dalano Banton (Raptors draft pick in 2021), played against Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Minnesota Timberwolves), AJ Lawson (Dallas Mavericks) and many more.
5. What is your favourite memory from your time with Troyka?
One of my favourite memories at Trojka was playing house league basketball every Saturday. We were allowed to pick our favourite jersey number with our last names written on the back. This made me feel like a true NBA superstar! My dad bought me arm bends and I wore it to each game thinking I was Vince Carter since he wore it during his time with the Toronto Raptors at that time.
6. How has Troyka contributed to your success?
Trojka was where my dream of playing basketball began. My whole basketball journey started at Trojka at the very young age of 5. Trojka was where I first dribbled the ball, first made a shot, first played a friendly basketball game with referees and the first time I got a nosebleed. Throughout the whole process, Trojka and its community made me feel very welcome and allowed me to fall in love with the game of basketball to this day, 20 years later!
7. What do you think are the most important areas for young athletes to focus on?
I think one of the most important areas for young athletes to focus on is sportsmanship and character development. Learning the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, integrity, and respect for coaches, teammates, opponents, and officials is important for both athletic and personal development. Respecting the game of basketball and the little things that come along with it will go a long way in your journey to succeed in the long run.
8. Any final thoughts you’d like to share with the next generations of Troyka athletes?
Be the best version of yourself. No matter if it involves playing basketball, some other sport or just your everyday life, I always went by this saying. It helped me achieve many more goals and have many doors open for me. Always remember to be happy, have a purpose and make it mean something to you and everyone around you. Express that same purpose and positive energy to your teammates, coaches, teachers, and classmates and you’ll be very successful in life.
